Alisma plantago-aquatica - Water Plantain, Native Pond Marginal Plant
Alisma plantago-aquatica, known as water plantain, is a UK native marginal plant with rosettes of oval, grey-green leaves. From June to September it sends up tall, branching sprays of small white flowers, which open in the afternoon.
Water plantain at a glance
| Botanical name | Alisma plantago-aquatica |
|---|---|
| Common name | Water plantain |
| Plant type | Clump-forming perennial; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread | Usually 45–60 cm tall in flower (RHS: up to 1 m), up to 50 cm wide |
| Flowers | Small, white to pale lilac, in tall airy sprays, June to September |
| Position | Full sun or part shade |
| Soil | Wet mud or shallow water |
| Pond depth | 10–20 cm of water over the crown (up to 30 cm) |
| Hardiness | RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C) |
| Native to | UK and Ireland (native wild flower) |
Where to plant water plantain
- Pond shelves with 10–20 cm of water over the crown
- Wildlife ponds and natural pond margins
- Larger ponds and lakes
Is water plantain good for wildlife?
Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list and is visited by small flies, bees and hoverflies. Seed heads left over winter feed birds, and the dead stems shelter aquatic insects.
Does it self-seed?
Yes, freely. Cut off the flower stems once flowering finishes if you do not want seedlings around the pond.
Is water plantain poisonous?
Yes. The leaves and roots are toxic and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when handling it.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
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